About Samuel B.

I teach guitar lessons face-to-face without sheet music. This is my adaptation of Japanese instruction (involving a call-and-response method). I begin by teaching the student the major scale in first position (the first three frets above the head) in the key of C. Once this has been learned (backwards and forwards), the student is ready to learn first-position chords. Barre chords, the blues scale, as well as jazz-flavored triads are taught once first position chords have been mastered.

We'll begin with major scales. That way, your fingers will get to know the notes that comprise the chords you'll eventually be learning. Eventually, you'll be able to play whole songs with both major and minor chords and play solos over them (also based on the scales).

I'm a primarily self-taught musician. The bulk of my knowledge came from listening to and imitating delta blues artists such as Robert Johnson and Mississippi John Hurt. Though you will have learned to play campfire standards in fewer than eight lessons, the blues (particularly the form originating from the Mississippi Delta) is the foundation of ALL A

merican music. The better you understand and are able to play it, the more options you will have created for yourself musically. Once you've gained confidence playing the blues, I'll introduce informal jazz.
For more information about my curriculum, you may review my published articles on TakeLesson's Teacher Blog. Please note that I'm available to teach both in-person and online:
http://takelessons.com/blog/learning-guitar-without-sheet-music
http://takelessons.com/blog/reasons-to-learn-guitar-scales
http://takelessons.com/blog/beginner-guitars
http://takelessons.com/blog/blues-chord-progressions
http://takelessons.com/blog/best-guitar-solos
http://takelessons.com/blog/guitar-barre-chords
http://takelessons.com/blog/learning-guitar-styles
http://takelessons.com/blog/expand-your-guitar-solos
http://takelessons.com/blog/maximize-acoustic-guitar-lifespan
http://takelessons.com/blog/are-you-ready-to-play-guitar-solos
http://takelessons.com/blog/blues-guitar-exercise
http://takelessons.com/blog/writing-a-song-on-guitar-z01
http://takelessons.com/blog/writing-a-song-on-guitar-lyrics-z01
http://takelessons.com/blog/guitar-tips-for-open-mic-z01
http://takelessons.com/blog/preparing-for-bluegrass-guitar-lessons-z01
http://takelessons.com/blog/2-simple-tricks-to-play-country-guitar-z01
http://takelessons.com/blog/how-to-write-a-jazz-guitar-song-z01
http://takelessons.com/blog/famous-guitar-players-who-are-not-virtuosos-z01
http://takelessons.com/blog/5-jazz-guitar-licks-z01

...

Reviews

Raphael September 20, 2018·Acting·In studio

I found Samuel to be very good at making me feel comfortable at acting, even though I'm a fairly introverted person. Also he adapts to the subject and managed to have me memorize 3 pages of script, which is not something I thought I anyone could get me to do.

Andy February 18, 2018·Blues Guitar·In home

Sam is very patient and knowledgeable about the guitar.

Rich February 15, 2018·Blues Guitar·

Sam Bean is a thoughtful, perceptive person who is sensitive to people’s learning styles. He has a lot of experience in playing, as well as teaching guitar. He is also someone of high integrity.

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Samuel B.

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Samuel B.

Austin, TX 78704

(13)

starting at

$25
/ 30-min

About Nicholas A.

I work with students of ALL AGES, and ALL SKILL LEVELS, so no matter whether you are just starting to explore your passion, or you want to master your craft, I have different options to suit your needs.

I offer Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced Classes, and I have several available class times for each skill level and instrument, so students have flexible options to suit their needs.

Beginner's Classes-Learning the Basics of the Instrument, Rhythm Games, Chords, Scales, Introduction to Reading Sheet Music, Playing Full Songs and Arrangements, Introduction to Music Theory

Intermediate Classes-Music Theory and Comprehension, Music Performance, Rhythm vs. Lead Playing, Introduction to Song Writing, Intro to Improvisation, Music Arrangement and Layering for Recording, Adopting Musical Styles

Advanced Classes -Advanced Music Theory, Advanced Improvisation, Introduction to Sound Engineering, and Music Performance, and I can also help students play a multitude of styles such as Rock,

About Nicholas

Hey y'all,

I am a Music Instructor, but most importantly a Music Coach. I have been playing music for 25+ years, and I play a variety of instruments at a high degree of technicality. I've played music of all different styles both as a singer/songwriter but also different in bands, ensembles, etc.

I have been playing music for 25 years and I performed live hundreds of times as a part of recitals, blues bands, jazz ensembles, rock bands, and as a solo artist/singer-songwriter. I teach music theory, performance, composition, and can teach you a variety of different styles of playing.

I work with ALL AGES and ALL SKILL LEVELS, and I'm very patient and professional when dealing with children and adults alike.

I understand that every student I have is an individual, and each wants something different out of working with me. My r

ole isn't just to teach you the chords and scales, but to help you develop your passion so your unique musical style can grow.

My first lesson is always free to make sure us working together makes sense. Please call me at 512-653-0491, or email me at naldieri@gmail.com.

Thank you!

...

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Nicholas A.

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Nicholas A.

Austin, TX 78749

starting at

$30
/ 30-min

About David L.

I've been teaching guitar, acoustic and electric, for fifteen years. The first thing I like to do is get to know you, the music you enjoy and your goals. In a way, I like to begin by letting the student lead.

I believe anyone can play guitar. In most situations, we can learn the basics of playing some of your favorite songs in under a month. In the first few lessons we will learn open position chords and the basics of strumming and picking in 4/4 and 3/4 time. After you've memorized half a dozen or so songs this way, we can attempt barre chords and lead guitar playing.

About David

My name is David and I'm a professional musician who just moved to North Austin. I came from Cincinnati, where I went to the University of Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music, taught dozens of students at all levels and played regular gigs every weekend. I have been teaching for over fifteen years, and I'm looking to get a few new students. I teach guitar, piano, bass guitar and even upright bass. If it's a tutor you are looking for I can also teach music theory and appreciation. I have a knack for teaching young people, probably because I was young when I started my musical journey. I've been very successful at inspiring a student's love of music and instilling the patience required to take on the challenge of playing an instrument.The first thing I like to do is get to know you, the music you enjoy and your goals. In a way, I l

ike to begin by letting the student lead.In addition to learning from you, I intend to present you with new information, to try and broaden your musical tastes and teach you how to be an active listener.

...

Reviews

Sissi G. October 8, 2018·Ukulele·In home

David is a great teacher.

Charu S. September 17, 2018·Guitar·Online

Jane November 15, 2017·Ukulele·In studio

Excellent first lesson today! Well focused on individual needs and goals. Very professional and encouraging. Looking forward to working hard and learning a great deal from this fine teacher.

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David L.

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David L.

Austin, TX 78717

(26)

starting at

$25
/ 30-min

About Michael L.

Learn your favorite songs and traditional tunes of the genre of your choice. I can teach you to improvise and get a feel for how songs are written. We can work with written music or guitar tablature, your choice. I can show you important patterns for both hands and teach you some to tricks to really accentuate a normally dull guitar part

About Michael

I am a classically trained and professional musician who has worn many different musical hats over the years. I began playing drums when I was 14, in Houston, TX with Craig LeMay, and since then I have learned many different string and world instruments. I studied music theory and vocal performance at the Florence University of the Arts in Italy, taken sitar lessons from Mita Nag in Kolkatta, India, and jazz performance in Austin, TX with Joey Colarusso. I have played in many different bands over the years, such as accompanying Michael Kiwanuka with the musical saw, accompanying Katie Sachs with the musical saw, playing bass guitar with Halaska and DJing private events with Spacecraft Entertainment. I have been teaching music to special education students, in Austin public schools, and foster children with Kids in a New Groove. I have als

o built and modified many of my own instruments and ready to teach you some quirky musical production skills as well. I believe listening and being adaptable to an individual student's needs are the keys to teaching anyone to express themselves through music.

After studying Spanish for 2 years at the university level and extensive travel to Latin America I am fluent in Spanish in both the academic and conversational sides of the language.

...

Reviews

Heather September 10, 2018·Bass Guitar·In studio

Michael was an excellent teacher. Very relaxed, patient and understanding. He taught me a combination of songs and some music theory that was reasonably challenging to practice at home.

Rodger F. August 22, 2018·Guitar·In home

If I could give ZERO stars, I would!
This instructor stood me up.
I showed up at his home for our first lesson only to find out that he wasn't there.
I've also contacted "takelessons.com", but have had no response from them either!

CAVEAT EMPTOR!

Alex Derzhi July 31, 2016··

Michael is doing a great job getting me started on my piano journey. The exercises and drills he is teaching me have helped me feel comfortable at the keyboard. I've even learned a song already, after just 2 lessons!

Highly recommended.

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Michael L.

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Michael L.

Austin, TX 78723

(9)

starting at

$20
/ 30-min

About Andy L.

I have been playing guitar for nearly 10 years. I focus on good technique and studying the instrument beyond just campfire chords.

About Andy

Andy has been teaching music since 2003. He has been playing music since age 10 when he began playing trumpet in 5th grade. Andy holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education from San Diego State University and is certified in Arizona. He has worked as a music and marching coach at the high school level, performed live jazz, classical, funk, rock and blues music, recorded with several bands in studio, and has been the instrumental music director at Sunnyslope High School in Phoenix Arizona for 8 years.

Andy's teaching focuses on proven pedagogy to help students start playing for the first time, or improve their range, technique, tone and intonation. He wants all of his students to have fun playing their instrument, while improving. Getting better feels good right? With over a decade teaching experience, Andy has worked with stude

nts as young as 7 through teens and leisure players. He is passionate about the joy of music, and imparts that joy to others.

...

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Andy L.

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Andy L.

Buda, TX 78610

starting at

$30
/ 30-min

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About Austin L.

In our lessons, we can cover anything you'd like (your enjoyment of guitar is my top priority), ranging from basic technique all the way to advanced fretboard maneuvers. I can teach you anything from simple strum patterns or fun classic riffs all the way to the technical mastery of great guitarists like Joe Satriani and Steve Vai. I'm well versed in music theory and can give you insight on how and why ideas work and how they can easily apply to your playing (such as scales, arpeggios, etc.)

About Austin

Hello there, I'm Austin. I've been playing guitar since I was a kid. I've been performing live for the better part of the last decade, and have taken various college level music courses as well. In fact, I still study with a great jazz guitar teacher; Guitar is an instrument where there is always more to learn. I can help you learn anything from strumming along to a Bob Dylan song all the way through the ins and outs of the brilliant technique of Eddie Van Halen and Steve Vai. I can also teach you music theory as it applies to the guitar; such as how to read music, build and name chords (and why they work), scales and arpeggios (and how to use them in your playing), as well as an understanding of rhythm and time (a shortcoming of many aspiring guitarists!). I look forward to working with you!

...

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Austin L.

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Austin L.

Dripping Springs, TX 78620

starting at

$30
/ 30-min

About Adam B.

I'm a patient teacher with the ability to structure and pace lessons to meet the individual needs and ability levels of a wide variety of students. I am a professional performer, composer and recording artist with 20 years experience on stage and in the studio. I'm familiar with a wide variety of styles, and have studied blues, African, classical and Brazilian guitar at Chicago's Old Town School of Folk Music. I offer lessons on acoustic or electric guitar, depending on student preference.

About Adam

I'm a professional performer, composer and recording artist, now accepting guitar students. I play folk, rock, blues and finger style guitar and have studied with African guitar scholar Nathaniel Braddock. I've toured extensively in Europe and North America, opened for the band Wilco, and played at Chicago's well known music festival Lollapalooza.

I enjoy working with children and adults of any age. I can teach from my studio in Northwest Hills or travel to your preferred location.

My rates are- $35/30 minutes$40/45 minutes $50/hr.

I look forward to meeting you!

...

Reviews

Jerry December 8, 2016·Acoustic Guitar·In home

excellent teacher/mentor.. My Son, has enjoyed his lessons.

Jo October 12, 2016·Guitar·In home

Adam is helping me get back to playing guitar after some 40 years in which I did not play at all. With his help, I’m refreshing what I used to know (basic chords and notes on the staff), and extending my skills into new areas, like finger-picking, barre chords, and tablature-reading--plus learning a lot of new songs. He’s an excellent teacher.

Jamie October 11, 2016·Guitar·In studio

As a middle aged man trying to learn an instrument, it was a daunting task to find a teacher that would work with me to learn the basics of guitar without laughing at my inability to actually play the darn thing.

Adam has been a great teacher and exactly the sort of professional and understanding person I was looking for. While I don't think my mediocre (getting better every week) guitar skills are the best testament to Adam's ability as a teacher, I think the fact that he has encouraged me to stick with it and turn a crazy idea into a legitimate hobby is.

Adam B.

Adam B.

About Andrew K.

Having trouble staying consistent with your practices? Do you know your potential but haven't been able to reach it? I can guide you to achievement, and this is how.

I believe a successful and prosperous person has 3 hobbies. One to keep them healthy.One to make them money.And one to keep them creative.

My approach to these 3 activities is the same. HAVE FUN.If you enjoy something, the consistent practicing will become secondhand. I will teach you your favorite songs, improvisational techniques, and music theory all in a way that will make you forget to check the time. What are we waiting for? Let's jam!

About Andrew

I started taking lessons when I was 9, focusing solely on blues and classic rock. As I grew up, I branched out into heavy metal, jazz, and classical. At the end of our lesson, my teacher would always write something with me and let me solo over it. I think this was super important for keeping it fun, as just metronome work can get pretty boring (still important though)! I've now been playing for 12 years and teaching for 1. I am finishing college in Germany and would like to do music full time after graduation. If you have any questions, feel free to send me a message!

...

Reviews

Gautam September 2, 2018·Guitar·Online

Adnan April 11, 2018·Guitar·Online

Excellent sesssion. Andrew is great to work with. Looking forward to our next session...

Blake E. January 16, 2018·Guitar·Online

Fun, insightful, loves to keep it fun

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Andrew K.

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Andrew K.

Austin, TX 78754

(3)

starting at

$15
/ 30-min

About Victor L.

I have been teaching private lessons in guitar for over 10 years, specializing in Classical and Flamenco styles. All ages and skill levels are welcome! Lessons are customized and catered to the needs of each student. I'm looking forward to helping you achieve your goals!

About Victor

My name is Victor, and I would love to help you further your skills and love for guitar!

I have a Master's degree in Guitar Performance -- emphasis on Classical and Flamenco -- from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. I have been providing private lessons in guitar for over 10 years for students of all ages and skill levels. I also perform and gig regularly. In my career, I have played several well known pieces, such as Entre Dos Aguas by Paco De Lucia, Asturias by Isaac Albeniz, and Recuerdos De La Alhambra by Francisco Tarrega.

Lesson plans are tailored to the student's needs and goals, which can be anything from learning how to read music, learning how to play by ear, furthering one's technique, etc. In lessons with me, you can expect to develop the basics of proper classical techniques, all the way to mastery, enabling y

ou to play fast and precise.

My goal as a teacher is to develop a strong foundation to allow students to eventually learn songs on their own with ease. I strive to create a fun environment to foster learning and keep students engaged in the task at hand. My schedule is flexible and I am open to lessons at my home, your home, or online. I can't wait to get started!

...

Reviews

Khaim June 14, 2018·Classical Guitar·In home

Victor has been coming to our home to teach my 12-year-old daughter the piano and guitar. He’s done well not only to teach her to play and write music but has imparted great enthusiasm in her for playing the instruments . I would highly recommend him for the position.

Antonio June 13, 2018·Flamenco Guitar·In home

Amazing flamenco player and teacher, highly recommend. He has first hand knowledge from traditional flamenco players

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Victor L.

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Victor L.

Austin, TX 78704

(2)

starting at

$34
/ 30-min

About Jaime L.

My lessons are unique because I focus on self-expression and fun while still emphasizing technique! I think one of the most important things in playing guitar is developing ones own style! However, having solid chord changes, scale knowledge, and hand positioning, are just some of the essential skills needed to developing good technique and style. I have been playing for 14 years, and teaching for 4. I was self taught so I understand all the trials and pitfalls that both a young guitarist and a seasoned guitarist can go through. Also those struggling with or wanting to learn improvisation, that is my specialty!

About Jaime

Hello! I am an avid musician around town, a graduate from UT Austin with a B.S. in Mathematcs, and I just finished my first year of service with Americorps teaching literacy! I’m extremely passionate about helping others learn and express themselves. Guitar is a cornerstone of my life and being able to share my 14 years of knowledge with others, guide them, and help them learn to play their favorite music on stage or write their own songs is amazing. From studios downtown, to the stage during SXSW, I offer experience based teaching on everything guitar and music. I have always loved math since I was young and was very excited to study it in college. I understand that this can be a frustrating subject, and I aim to get my students to a high level of preparedness and comfortability that will transfer over into their performance in the class

room and tests. I aim for the same high level of performance in math in reading as well. I have always loved reading but I never knew how to teach this important skill. During my service term with Americorps, I gained the knowledge and skills to teach early literacy and get students reading at grade level or help them get a head start in their elementary school.

Affordable

Effective

Guitar Lesson Reviews from Students

Students are raving about their Guitar instructors on TakeLessons.
Check out some of these recent reviews.

Review by Jamie

"As a middle aged man trying to learn an instrument, it was a daunting task to find a teacher that would work with me to learn the basics of guitar without

laughing at my inability to actually play the darn thing.

Adam has been a great teacher and exactly the sort of professional and understanding person I was looking for. While I don't think my mediocre (getting better every week) guitar skills are the best testament to Adam's ability as a teacher, I think the fact that he has encouraged me to stick with it and turn a crazy idea into a legitimate hobby is."

...

Austin, TX teacher:
Adam B.

Review by Jed

"We have had the pleasure of knowing Sam Bean for many years and would give him an A+ for his singing, guitar and performance skills. In short, Sam is awe

some and an exceptional person."

...

Austin, TX teacher:
Samuel B.

Review by Claudia

"Trevor is a great instructor! Very positive attitude and knowledgeable!!"

Austin, TX teacher:
Trevor P.

Review by Selena

"David was on time, thorough, focused, professional, and a wonderful teacher, and I could go on. My daughter is looking forward to many more lessons with

him to come!"

...

Austin, TX teacher:
David L.

Review by Denise

"Love for music

My 8yr old daughter takes guitar lessons with Josh in a classroom setting, and has been for about a year now. I looked around for a teache

r for a while before finding Josh and have been very pleased with the class and the progress my daughter has made. Josh really has a love for music that transfers well into the classroom. He is very patient with the students and puts effort into connecting with each of his students. We are very blessed to have found him and are grateful for foundation he is giving my daughter in music."

...

Austin, TX teacher:
Josh G.

Review by Paul

"This instructor is great!

Josh is a kind and patient instructor, he focuses heavily on technique and minor details that make playing easier. He provides

constructive criticism to help understand the mechanics of guitar playing. I've learned so much in my first weeks with Josh, I plan to continue my lessons under his guidance."

...

Austin, TX teacher:
Josh G.

Review by Reed Coleman

"Trevor has been a great teacher! He is extremely knowledgeable and patient. He makes learning fun and is very flexible based on each individual students n

eeds. I would highly recommend him to anyone whether they are a beginner or advanced player. He has the skill set to apply to all students."

...

Austin, TX teacher:
Trevor P.

Review by Conner

"Learned a LOT of great stuff in just the past 3 years from Trevor! He started out as my Middle School Guitar Teacher, but wound up being a personal guitar

tutor for my brother and myself until this day. Taught me just about everything I know about guitar scales, AND has refined my technique drastically!"

...

Austin, TX teacher:
Trevor P.

Review by Allan Brandt

"Samuel has been a top notch teacher and is very patient with my son. My son always tells me that he's inspired after every lesson. So much so that anoth

er one of my other sons has observed these lessons and is interested in taking lessons from Samuel as well."

Recent Guitar Articlesfrom the Blog

Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned pro,
check out the Guitar articles on our blog.

Yearning to learn to strum a tune? Guitar teacher Kirk R. shares a perfect first lesson in strumming a guitar...
Most of the songs that my guitar students want to learn consist largely, if not completely, of strummed chords.
While most students are able to pick up both simple and more complicated rhythms, or strumming patterns, often I notice that beginners have a hard time keeping track of where the beat is and really getting into the groove of the song.
Its also common that I se …
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How to Strum a Guitar: A Beginner's First Lesson

Yearning to learn to strum a tune? Guitar teacher Kirk R. shares a perfect first lesson in strumming a guitar...
Most of the songs that my guitar students want to learn consist largely, if not completely, of strummed chords.
While most students are able to pick up both simple and more complicated rhythms, or strumming patterns, often I notice that beginners have a hard time keeping track of where the beat is and really getting into the groove of the song.
Its also common that I se

What Should I Expect From Online Bass Guitar Lessons?

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&nbsp;
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10 Easy Guitar Chords for Beginners

So you have a new guitar and you're excited to learn some easy guitar chords for beginners. If you started by looking through a chord book or at chord diagrams online, you probably found yourself completely overwhelmed. There are hundreds of possible guitar chords!
Even if we simplify it down to just the major and minor chords, we still have 24 chords and some of these are difficult for a beginner to play.
Let's make this much easier. Learn the following 10 easy guitar chords in a vari

7 Easy Electric Guitar Songs for Rock & Metal Beginners

Looking for easy electric guitar songs? If you're ready to start laying down some heavy riffs, keep reading.
In this article we'll share seven easy metal songs on guitar that even beginners can learn to play.
You may not be a Randy Rhoads or a Zak Wylde yet, but if you have something to say then theres plenty of room on the Ozzfest stage! Lets start with the top seven easy rock guitar songs.
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This ma

Learning Guitar: Understanding Minor and 7th Chords

What are minor and 7th chords anyway? TakeLessons teacher Brian T. breaks down the music theory behind building these chords...
Learning guitar chords is one of the early challenges of learning the guitar. Very often a new student will find themselves presented with a host of fingering patterns that make little sense. "Why this set of frets and not that one?" the student wonders "Why, when I move my E major down a string does it become A minor?" With just a bit of music theory and a willi